The Disadvantages of GMO Sweet Corn

Corn is the no. 1 crop grown in the United States.

Eighty-five percent of the corn produced in the United States is genetically modified, according to the Center for Food Safety. To produce a genetically modified organism or GMO, scientists take genes from one plant or animal and insert them into the DNA of another. The technology of genetic engineering can produce crops that grow faster and larger and that are more resistant to herbicides and disease. The disadvantages of GMO sweet corn are potential dangers to human health and the environment.

GMO Sweet Corn

Sweet corn that has been genetically modified is generally resistant to herbicides and possesses its own built-in pesticide, called Bacillus thuringiensis or Bt. When insects ingest GMO corn, the Bt contained in the corn kills the pests. Although this built-in toxin offers a significant advantage to farmers because it eliminates the need to spray crops with pesticides, it also means humans are consuming Bt with every bite of corn.

Allergic Responses

One of the major disadvantages of GMO corn is its potential to trigger allergies. First, genetic material from a potentially allergenic food may be transferred to corn, also transferring the allergenic properties. Secondly, genetic modification alters the actual DNA of the corn. This process introduces new proteins into the food supply that are not naturally present, opening the door for a new allergy to be developed.

Toxicity

Proponents of GMO corn claim that the Bt toxin is destroyed in the intestinal tract and is harmless to humans. However, a study published in "Life Sciences" in 1999 found that when Bt was given to mice, it caused a significant immune response. Additionally, when scientists insert genetic material into the DNA of an organism, it is done at random. Each random insertion creates the possibility for a new toxin to be formed, turning a safe food into something hazardous. Unfortunately, there are no long-term studies to either prove or disprove the safety of GMOs.

Environmental Impact

GMO sweet corn also has a potentially negative impact on the environment. GM plants can cross-pollinate with nearby crops, making organic farming difficult. Cross-pollination has eliminated a large portion of heirloom varieties of corn and could contaminate wild plants as well. Crops with built-in pesticides can also affect aquatic plants and wildlife through contamination of nearby streams.

About the Author

Becky Bell is a registered dietitian with experience in the areas of diabetes, chronic kidney disease and general nutrition. Bell holds a Bachelor of Science in dietetics from Olivet Nazarene University and a Master of Science in human nutrition from the University of Alabama.